All Blacks’ preparations for new rugby season are well underway at Holt House

Matthew Boatwright, Matthew Tindall and Paul Lacy

Published:12:30Friday 15 July 2016

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Colne and Nelson Rugby Club have returned from their summer break and are looking forward to the new season, which starts in September.

Club captain Mathew Tindall will lead a fitter and stronger team than ever.

The club now have a gym at Holt House and many of the players have been building up their strength over the close season.

In addition, the All Blacks have invited former RAF fitness specialist Paul Lacy to work with the team.

Coach Matthew Boatwright believes that, in addition to improving fitness and strength, the players also need to work on their passing, handling and contact skills, which are central to improving standards.

This year Colne are looking to concentrate on back play, and, in particular, how they function as a collective.

This summer the coach has invited a number of guest coaches to work with the players to supplement the work he has done over the last couple of years.

Colne, whose first team play in the North Lancashire Division of the RFU leagues, are looking to figure in the promotion race after last season’s aim of consolidation in a new league.

Although the first team is the main focus of the club, they do have an equally competitive second team, which will be fundamental to improving the standard of play in the first team. Competition for places will improve standards and be the cornerstone of any success.

Colne have a strong and vibrant junior section which is underpinned by a commitment to the employment of a community rugby coach, whose main role is to introduce and develop the game of rugby in the local schools.

The club hold their AGM on Thursday at their recently-refurbished Holt House clubhouse. For more details on the club, call 07590818341 or e-mail colnerugby@hotmail.co.uk